About This Tour
Immerse yourself in BC's coastal wildlife as you travel through the gulf islands archipelago in search of killer whales (orcas), humpbacks, sea lions, porpoises, eagles, and more. Your guide has an academic background in biology and a passion for marine life! Whale sightings are guaranteed or your next trip is FREE. Hop onboard our 12-passenger zodiac style vessel and you'll experience whales and other marine life right at water level! We'll fit you for an anti-exposure suits that will keep you warm and help protect you from the elements.
Final price may vary. Check availability for exact pricing.
Photo Gallery

Bald eagles are commonly seen on our tours.

We provide anti-exposure suits to help protect you from the elements.

Humpback whales have return to our coast each spring and stay until the late fall

A transient orca spyhopping.

Explore BC's beautiful coastal vistas!

After a winter of fasting, humpback whales return to BC to feed.
Final price may vary. Check availability for exact pricing.
TopTours Insights
Whale Watching Nanaimo Open Boat Tour
This 4-hour tour aboard an open boat offers an immersive experience of coastal waters, seeking whales and other marine life. It's ideal for travelers who enjoy being fully exposed to the elements and prefer a more intimate connection with the ocean environment.
Calculating tour characteristics...
What's Included
What's Not Included
Additional Information
Meeting Point
Our office is located on Front Street, the seawall along downtown Nanaimo's waterfront.
Special Instructions
Please read the following carefully: Check-in is 45 minutes before your departure time and is mandatory for all passengers. We require a digital waiver form to be filled out by each guest before departure which will be available in our office. Minors waivers(18 years and younger) must be signed by a parent or guardian. If you require this waiver beforehand, please let us know. If there are any trip delays or cancellations due to sea conditions or low numbers, we will message you on the morning of your departure. If you will not have access to your email while you are in Nanaimo, please call after 8:00 am on the day of your trip to confirm your departure. We recommend that you bring the following: - Comfortable clothes and shoes. Please dress appropriately according to the weather - Water - Sunglasses + sunscreen - Cameras and/or video equipment (we can provide dry storage on the boat, cases still recommended) - Motion sickness tablets if you are prone to seasickness. Note: Seasickness is generally not an issue on our tours as we travel in an inland sea and are within sight of land the entire tour - Cash if you feel inspired to tip your crew at the end of your tour We are located at the Harbourfront Walkway at 5-90 Front Street, along the seawall in Nanaimo BC. If you're driving to our office there is paid parking nearby at the Pioneer Waterfront Plaza and the Harbour Front Parkade. Maffeo Sutton Park is recommended for parking RVs and other taller vehicles and is about a 10-minute walk from our office. If you need detailed directions or any assistance with transportation, please contact us once you are in Nanaimo or visit us online at www.vancouverislandwhalewatch.com. We're looking forward to having you aboard! We have a high success rate in finding whales (over 90%!), and most of the whales we find are orca and/or humpbacks. But if you don't see a whale then your next trip is on us! Your free offer is non-transferable and never expires.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
✓ Free cancellation due to bad weather
Tour Operator
Vancouver Island Whale Watch
Official supplier for this experience. Bookings are handled directly through Viator with verified partners.
Viator Certified
Trusted local operator
Are you the tour operator?
Get up to 15× more visibility by linking your tours together. Show travelers all your offerings on each tour page. Just one extra booking per month covers the cost. Starting at just $4.99/month.
Guest Ratings
Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
Based on 194 verified reviews
Average rating
Guest Reviews Preview
See what other travelers are saying about this experience
annettelY6752MY
Sep 17, 2025
Lots of whale to see
Fantastic staff. Great price, plenty of wildlife...
Read full review243matthewb
Sep 15, 2025
Amazing!
We booked a 4 hour tour in a semi-covered boat...
Read full reviewLargan3
Sep 11, 2025
Best experience ever!
I just got back from the most amazing T party I...
Read full reviewnickvB918PQ
Sep 10, 2025
Whale Watching
We had a wonderful whale watching experience in...
Read full reviewMarva_M
Sep 10, 2025
Fantastic experience!
The crew (Rob & Vanessa) were ao friendly and...
Read full reviewNote: If you click on "read full review" you will be directed to Viator's tour page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Whale Watching Nanaimo Open Boat Tour
Who operates this experience?
This experience is operated by Vancouver Island Whale Watch, a local water sports provider.
What's included?
This tour includes Toilets onboard, Anti-exposure suit provided, and Captain is certified by Transport Canada. Additional amenities and services are included. All inclusions are provided by the tour operator.
How long is this tour?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, giving you time to fully enjoy your chosen activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time for a full refund. If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled by the operator. In such cases, you'll be offered a refund or reschedule.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. All necessary equipment is provided by the tour operator.
Will I receive instant confirmation?
Yes, you'll receive instant confirmation when you book.
Is this tour worth it?
Yes, this experience has a 4.9-star rating based on 194+ reviews, making it a highly rated option.
What to expect on this tour?
This water sports experience lasts approximately 4 hours and includes all necessary equipment and guidance. You'll have access to Toilets onboard and more.
What's the best time to do this tour?
Morning and early afternoon are typically the best times for water activities, as conditions are usually calmer and visibility is better.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Swimming ability requirements vary. Life jackets and safety equipment are provided. Please check the tour details or contact the operator if you have concerns about swimming requirements.
Ready to Go?
Book Whale Watching Nanaimo Open Boat Tour
Secure your spot instantly through Viator and receive flexible cancellation options plus verified customer support.
Trusted partner • Instant confirmation
